On track for a new iconic Swiss rail journey
All aboard for a new iconic Swiss rail journey
It’s safe to say that Switzerland isn’t short of iconic rail journeys.
The Glacier Express, lovingly called ‘the slowest express train in the world’ is rightly renowned for its incredible views as it winds its way between the stylish mountain resorts of St Moritz and Zermatt. Dubbed the ‘rail expert’s best-kept secret’, the Bernina Express crosses the Alps into Italy, passing some breathtaking scenery and traversing incredible feats of engineering. There’s also the Jungfrau Express that chugs its way up to the highest station in Europe, providing jaw-dropping views of a year-round winter wonderland.
How did it come to pass?
However, there’s a new kid on the block in the form of the GoldenPass Express. Well, as ‘new’ as a 100-year-old idea can be. Trains have journeyed on this route since the early 1900s but, because they travelled from French-speaking Montreux to German-speaking Interlaken, the track gauges were a different size. This meant passengers endured a lengthy stop at Zweisimmen while the carriages were lifted on to another train.
Recently, a cutting-edge method of continuing the journey unhindered was developed. It’s incredibly technological but involves a ramp that allows the coach wheels to reposition themselves. What this means for passengers is that, since the GoldenPass Express’ inaugural journey on 11th December 2022, it is now possible to complete a smooth journey without having an extensive stop at Zweisimmen.
And what a journey it is..!
One vision: One incredible journey
Montreux, the glamorous resort on the banks of Lake Geneva, is the former home to Queen frontman Freddie Mercury and silent-movie star Charlie Chaplin and is well-known for hosting its world-famous jazz festival. It is just feet from Montreux’s chic lakefront promenade that this luxurious new train departs.
In stylish panoramic carriages, the train zigzags up the steep shoreline hills through glistening vineyards. Each turn reveals enchanting views of Lake Geneva’s azure waters far below and the imposing French Alps beyond. Emerging from the Col de Jaman tunnel, the scenery becomes noticeably more alpine. Dense forests dot the landscape, and the horizon undulates with rising peaks.
These hills and the alpine pastures that drape them are in cheese country. The popular Gruyère is made round here and in the quaint village of Rossinière there is a remarkable monument to the delicious dairy product. The beautiful Grand Chalet of Rossinière is the largest inhabited wooden building in Switzerland and was constructed in the mid-1700s with one concern in mind – the cellar must be big enough to house 600 wheels of cheese. A mouth-watering brief for any architect to get their teeth into.
It is from this village that the route enters the Pays d’Enhaut, or the Swiss Highlands, a land of rolling hills and lush meadows. The largest town here is Chateau d'Œx, the former home of actor David Niven and artist MC Escher, which is nestled amongst the western Bernese Alps that guide the train through the Saane Valley to Gstaad.
This upmarket resort and its wealth of idyllic wooden chalets and chic boutiques exudes style and has long attracted a glittering roster of stars such as Grace Kelly, Madonna and Roger Moore. From here, the route winds through peaceful rural villages dappled with charming chalets, amid views of dense forests and rising hills, before arriving in Zweisimmen.
Following the rushing jade waters of the Simme river on its way to Lake Thun, the increasingly wild scenery encroaches closer to the track. Craggy outcrops blanketed by forests steer the track down into beautiful Spiez. Huddled on the shore of crystal-clear Lake Thun, the focus of this delightful town is its 10th-century fairytale castle that appears to protrude into the lake.
It is here that the GoldenPass Express rejoins the regular Swiss rail network. However, having the added benefit of panoramic carriages, the views of lake and mountains are even more spectacular than usual.
Interlaken, the route’s destination, spreads across a valley between lakes Thun and Brienz, and boasts views of the spectacular Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains. It is the ideal base for an exploration of these permanently snowy peaks, as well as the Schilthorn and its James Bond exhibition and restaurant.
Style and substance
It’s probably fair to say that Canadian country-pop star Shania Twain hasn’t launched too many trains in her illustrious career. However, the musician who now lives near Lake Geneva did just that in December 2022 to a vehicle named ‘Shania Train’ in her honour. Hopefully she was impressed.
Decorated in stylish royal blue and cream, this modern electric train allows passengers to bask in the stunning scenery while enjoying the benefits of the plush, modern interior. Designed by the firm behind Ferrari and Maserati, the large windows have been engraved in a way that reduces glare, while the lighting has been positioned to minimise reflections.
Travelling between the tourist hubs of Montreux and Interlaken in just over three hours is great for visitors to Switzerland, and there are culinary options onboard with a focus on delicious local specialities. And if that wasn’t enough, the top-of-the-range Prestige Class also offers rotatable heated leather seats that are raised to provide an even better view.
While the world-famous Glacier Express and Bernina Express are rightly revered, it surely won’t be too long until the GoldenPass Express joins this elite line-up.
- You can travel on the GoldenPass Express as part of our tour that also includes cruises on Lake Geneva and Lake Thun, and rail excursions on the Mont Blanc Express and Jungfrau Express
